Amanda Hagel rendition of 'Country Roads'

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to catch up with the Inspirational Canadian Artist Amanda Hagel to discuss her latest release—a cover and video of John Denver's iconic song Country Roads. Amanda first included Country Roads in her setlist at a folk music festival, and in that moment, she connected with the beauty of the lyrics. This connection inspired her to consider recording the song in the future. Even though she had heard "Country Roads" and knew the words by heart, reciting them brought on a whole new level of connection and appreciation for the story within the song. Amanda’s rendition of Country Roads is a heartfelt tribute to the classic John Denver masterpiece, and she pays meticulous attention to every note and lyric. Amanda's voice carries the warmth and nostalgia embedded in the original, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and vast—a true journey through the picturesque landscapes described in the song.

In addition to this homage, Amanda has previously unveiled an album of cover songs, Collection of Covers, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Leading her band, she effortlessly brings new life to beloved tracks, selecting those that resonate deeply with her spirit and the powerful message she aspires to share with her audience. Each performance is infused with her vibrant energy, which radiates from the stage and envelops her fans, allowing them to feel her profound love for the lyrics and stories they tell. Amanda’s music is not just a series of notes; it’s an invitation to experience the joy and meaning behind each song.

The video for Country Roads was recorded at Sound Castle Studio, a studio located inside a vintage church. Amanda described the building as one that feels like it hugs you upon entering; it's a warm and comfortable place where she hopes to perform an intimate show in the future.

Amanda emphasizes valuing quality over quantity and believes life is a marathon, not a sprint. She embodies this perspective through her music career as well as in her role as a personal trainer. Amanda said what she has learned is not to be impatient; it's all about the art of music, not the pressure of industry.

It was great to catch up with you, Amanda Hagel. Thank you for chatting with me about your project, In A Country Minute

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Tammy - From a Caterpillar to a Butterfly

Tammy released Someone to Love Me Right, a reflective song co-written by Corey Lee Barker that focuses on the anticipation of finding the right partner. The lyrics tell the story of waiting for someone special, emphasizing that you shouldn't settle for just anyone. The right person is out there, waiting for you. Tammy's inspiring single, Someone to Love Me Right, is a heartfelt exploration of the beauty in waiting for true love. With reflective lyrics, the song encourages listeners to remain hopeful in their search for a partner who truly fulfills their needs. It conveys a powerful message that settling is not an option; instead, one should believe that the right person is out there, ready to create a meaningful connection. Through its uplifting melodies, Tammy inspires us to trust the journey of love and to hold out for someone who complements our lives perfectly.

Tammy, Photo by Brandon Riley, Riley's Graphic Visions

Tammy articulated that the initial stages of this song emerged from her decision to refrain from seeking another romantic partner. She had become disenchanted with the "dating pool." However, after engaging in significant reflection, soul-searching, and prayer, she recognized the necessity of altering her thought process and expectations. This transformation in perspective ultimately served as the foundation for the song's creation.

Tammy has an important story to share; her music is just one aspect of that narrative. She is a survivor of domestic violence and abuse, having faced life-threatening situations at the hands of her husband of 17 years, who gradually exerted control over her life. Once she freed herself from that relationship, Tammy decided she wanted to help others who might find themselves in similar situations. Tammy's journey inspired her to see herself as a "caterpillar becoming a butterfly," learning to grow, learn, love, and trust along that journey. Tammy uses the butterfly as a symbol of that growth and change, wearing a necklace to remind herself every day.

Through her experiences with support groups, Tammy learned that many individuals isolate themselves and search for hope through various means, including social media. This inspired her to start a vlog that documents her healing journey. Tammy’s motto and vlog title are TGIT—Thank God It’s Today—rather than TGIF.

Tammy is an inspirational speaker, vlogger, singer, songwriter, and recording artist, dedicating herself to the goal of helping at least one person each day. Tammy has made it her mission to remind people to cherish today, as tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Someone to Love Me Right follows Tammy’s female anthem song God and A Job and Lovin' How the Leavin’ Feels. These and others are set to be released on an upcoming autobiographical EP.

Follow Tammy on her journey on her social media by clicking the buttons below.

Thank you, Tammy, for sharing your journey and backstory to help others who feel stuck or scared in whatever struggle they are in, In A Country Minute

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Tori Rose released "If Drinking was a Sport"

Everyone enjoys a sassy song, especially after a breakup, and Tori Rose's If Drinking Was a Sport is clever and catchy, complete with a music video! Tori Rose wrote this song based on personal experiences. Tori said she had the hook for a few months, written somewhat about an ex who drank a lot and was busted chatting about her behind her back. Initially, he thought that another song Tori released in 2024, titled Your Loss, was about him. In response, she created If Drinking Was a Sport to convey, "If you want me to write a song about you, here is one." Tori is in the video performing, but not acting out any scenes. Tori said she just got to sit back and watch, and never laughed so hard while watching the actors portray the parts of the song. Tori Rose penned If Drinking was a Sport as a solo writer, it was produced by Jimmy Ritchey, and Justin Mayotte directed the video.

Tori Rose, photo by Justin Hammond

Tori Rose grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania, described as "no one has ever heard of it," close to the West Virginia border. In her teens, she moved to Florida and embraced life in a larger city, which ultimately prepared her for her current home in Nashville. Tori is a multi-instrumentalist; she started playing the ukulele, guitar, and piano at six and soon added singing to her list of musical talents. She sang in choir and talent shows, gaining attention for her talents even into middle school. Tori Rose sang the National Anthem at the Monster Truck Jam and performed at the Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh as a young teen. Tori has opened for legendary artists like Aaron Tippin and Trace Adkins, explaining that during the Trace Adkins show, she enjoyed watching her parents sing along to the songs that she grew up listening to.

Thank you, Tori Rose, for sharing your songwriting, show experiences, and career with me In A Country Minute.

Keep up with Tori through her website and links to her social media below

Tori Rose on Instagram

Tori Rose on TikTok